Explain one way in which the role of Henry V as commander at Agincourt was different from the role of General Haig as commander at the Battle of the Somme. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1

One significant difference in the roles of Henry V and General Haig pertains to their command styles and the morale of their troops.

Henry V, during the Battle of Agincourt, personally engaged with his soldiers, which helped to boost their morale significantly. He inspired his men with speeches that emphasized their valor and the righteousness of their cause. This personal connection was crucial, as it created a strong bond between him and his troops, motivating them to achieve an unexpected victory against overwhelming odds.

In contrast, General Haig's leadership during the Battle of the Somme lacked this personal engagement. While he was responsible for high-level strategic planning, his relationship with the soldiers was more distant. Haig was criticized for his reliance on traditional tactics and for sending waves of men into battle despite heavy losses, leading to a decline in morale among the troops. This difference highlights how Henry V's personal presence and emotional engagement contrasted sharply with Haig's more detached approach, impacting overall soldier morale and effectiveness in battle.